27 WAYS TO FUN-IFY YOUR DESK AND BEAT THE OFFICE BLUES

R.I.P Cubicles

There’s a reason that companies like Google and Amazon are breaking down the cubicles. Corporate America is starting to learn that bland offices are detrimental to their employees’ morale. The effects range from boredom to major depression. Without stimulation in the workplace, productivity is slower and less innovative.

Approximately 6-7% of full-time U.S. workers experienced major depression (MDD) within the past year.

Source

Unfortunately, not all organizations are willing, able, or aware enough to make the changes. Of course, other factors play a role in the issue of job-satisfaction related depression. These factors include things like pre-existing conditions, stress, diet, and more. However, improving the work environment is the simplest way to alleviate symptoms.

The good news is that you can make your workspace a personal utopia without requesting major remodeling. When you let your brain have fun and give yourself something to look forward to each day, you can fight the office blues.

Awaken Your Senses

If you want to access 100% of your brain, you need to appeal to all of your senses. This means that one motivational quote poster won’t do the trick. Pick a variety of stimulants from the list below for maximum smiles.

Sight

Put up pictures of your family, friends, and petsPost your goals to keep a “big picture” perspective Display a picture of, or countdown to, something you’re looking forward toChange your computer background imageGet a happy lightBuy fun office supplies

Hearing

Invest in noise canceling headphonesListen to your favorite jams when work is monotonousFind calming soundtracks like waves, rain, or instrumentalsListen to epic soundtracks like The Lord of the Rings movie score

Smell

Put a scented candle on your deskUse a diffuserWear your favorite perfume or cologneApply essential oilsKeep scented hand lotion nearbyGet a plant

Touch

Keep a soft blanket at your deskBring a portable heater or fanSit on a balance ball or cushionExplore desk fitness optionsGet a tactile toy

Taste

Chew sugar-free gumSuck on these lollipops that are good for your teethSip cider or hot chocolatePack lunch or snacks that make you happy

Other

Keep games at your desk for quick mood boostersGet a page-a-day calendar